Legal jargon can often be confusing and intimidating for individuals who aren’t familiar with the criminal justice system. Understanding these key legal terms can help empower you to feel more confident and informed when navigating legal matters, particularly if you’re involved in a criminal case.

Subpoena

A subpoena is a legal document that compels someone to appear in court or provide necessary documents. Ignoring a subpoena can lead to penalties or even jail time. For instance, it can be used to require a witness to testify in a case or to produce evidence like emails or contracts. The recipient has a legal obligation to comply with the subpoena, underscoring its importance in the judicial process.

Arraignment

An arraignment is a defendant’s first appearance in court where they officially hear the charges against them and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This phase is significant as it sets the stage for the subsequent legal proceedings. It’s a critical moment where the defendant begins to understand the implications of the charges and outlines their initial response.

Perjury

Perjury involves lying under oath and is considered a serious offense because it undermines the integrity of the court system. For example, in the famous case of Martha Stewart, she was convicted of perjury for lying during insider trading investigations. Such actions can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, and distort the truth-seeking goal of legal proceedings.

Motion

A motion is a formal request made to the court, such as a motion to dismiss a case or a motion for a new trial. These requests can significantly impact the course of a case. For instance, a defense attorney may file a motion to suppress evidence if it was obtained illegally, potentially weakening the prosecution's case.

Bench Trial

A bench trial refers to a trial decided solely by a judge without a jury. Defendants may choose this option if they believe a judge might be more impartial or capable of understanding complex legal issues than a jury. This choice can influence the trial's speed and outcome, potentially leading to a faster resolution.

While these legal terms are essential to understand, they represent only a small portion of the complex criminal justice system. Save this terminology guide for future reference as it could be invaluable if you ever find yourself navigating legal proceedings. With the right knowledge, legal processes become less intimidating.

If you have questions or need help with criminal charges, contact our law firm for a consultation. We offer expertise and are committed to providing further clarity and representation in legal matters.